Democratic state lawmakers, led by Assembly Speaker Sheldon Silver, have blocked welfare-reform legislation that would end “sinful spending” by preventing people receiving government benefits from withdrawing taxpayer-funded cash at jiggle and gin joints, The Post has learned.

The state Senate passed the reform measure last year — and if the Assembly doesn’t act by 2014, New York could lose $120 million in federal funding because of new regulations, officials warned.

“Sheldon Silver decides which bills come up for a vote, so it’s up to the speaker whether he considers this a priority,” explained upstate Republican Assemblywoman Jane Corwin.

“The speaker knows [it’s a Republican bill], and he might choose not to bring it up for a vote. And that’s deplorable,” she continued.

“If you’re using a debit card at a casino or strip club, chances are you are not buying something that is beneficial to your family.”

Jim Towey -Served as an Assistant to the President of the United States & the Second president of Ave Maria University
Jeff Fortenberry (R-NE) - Nebraska's 1st District
Michelle Joni - Mastermind of the Preschool for Adults NY